In God's Image- a hymn by Jane Parker Huber

This morning there is a breeze blowing the wind chimes and rustling the leaves.  It is slightly cooler, at least for the moment.  It's probably going to rain at some point today.  But I'm not looking ahead.  For the present, I'm on the patio, enjoying the sounds from the breeze, the breeze itself, the clouds rolling by, the water fountain, and some quiet time.

As opened the Upperroom Worshipbook this morning, I opened it to a hymn, "In God's Image".  I stopped there and started reading:

1.
God, who spins the whirling planets, Fills the seas and spreads the plain
Molds the mountains, fashions blossoms, Calls forth sunshine, wind, and rain
We, created in your image, Would a true reflection be
Of your justice, grace, and mercy, And the truth that makes us free.
2.
You have called us to be faithful In our life and ministry.
We respond in grateful worship, Joined in one community.
When we blur your gracious image, Focus us and make us whole.
Healed and strengthened, as your people, We move onward toward your goal.
3.
God, your word is still creating, Calling us to life made new.
Now reveal to us fresh vistas Where there's work to dare and do.
Keep us clear of all distortion. Polish us, with loving care.
Thus new creatures in your image, We'll proclaim Christ everywhere.

This hymn was written by Jane Parker Huber in 1980.  It isn't one I know.  But the words resonate within me this morning.

This hymn is a good opportunity to practice lectio divina, sacred reading.  Read back over the hymn, slowly and prayerfully to see what stands out to you initially and then in a second reading.  In a third reading, what is your response to God?

God the Creator captures my attention in the first verse.  That we are to be in community and we move onward as a healed and strengthened people is what I see in the 2nd verse.  In the third verse, what I note is that God's word is still creating.  It isn't static.  There are fresh vistas.

The hymn is also known by the title "God, Who Spins the Whirling Planets" and "God, You Spin the Whirling Planets".

According to hymnary.org, it is published in 6 hymnals.

Here is the song being sung at the closing of worship:

Jane Parker Huber was born in China to missionary parents.  You can read a little more about her here.

If you are interested in finding more of her songs, here are several links:
CCLI
Song Select
Hymnary.org

As you go through this day, may you be encouraged by the Creator who spins the whirling planets and who is still creating both word and us.  Hear the call to life made new and join in community to dare and do the work revealed to do.

Blessings on your journey,

Debra

P.S.  By the end of my quiet time, the skies had cleared: